The population of the United States is aging, and with the swelling number of older adults comes a greater need to provide care. According to a press release on the U.S. Census Bureau website, by 2030, “all Baby Boomers will be older than age 65. This will expand the size of the older population so that 1 in every 5 residents will be retirement age.” By 2034, it says, there will be more people in the country over age 65 than under age 18.
This has ramifications for the health care industry. “Approximately 5 million of the 5.2 million Americans in 2013 with Alzheimer’s disease are ages 65 and older; by 2025 the elderly population with Alzheimer’s is projected to increase by 40 percent, to 7.1 million,” according to this abstract on HealthAffairs.org.
What these numbers mean is that providers need to find innovative and new ways to meet the growing demand for care for seniors, and to train and plan for the exploding need.
One of the goals of EngAGE EnCOURAGE™ is to help providers care for those with cognitive impairment through our innovative programming that actively engages participants. Instead of letting people stagnate in front of TVs and puzzles, our learning classes provide a lively menu of age-appropriate topics to help people connect with the world. Memories and life experiences are celebrated, allowing people to feel valued, loved and connected.
Daily cognitive and creative stimulation reduces anxiety and improves quality of life, which may reduce need for medication and staff intervention. Some studies also indicate lifelong learning may protect against continuing cognitive impairment.
Whether participants are discussing national parks or great inventors, they’ll exercise their brain by recalling fond memories, sharing a lifetime of knowledge, and learning from others. EngAGE EnCOURAGE™ offers an affordable, immersive plan with two fun classes each month to let people learn, laugh, and create all month long.
EngAGE EnCOURAGE™ provides quality curriculum for use in programming at assisted living communities, adult day clubs, and for memory care providers. Reach us via email or toll free by phone at (800) 990-9806.